13 Lakeside Dining Spots In Minnesota With Unforgettable Views
Minnesota lives up to its nickname as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, and what better way to enjoy these waters than with a great meal?
I’ve discovered that dining by the lake transforms an ordinary dinner into something special.
Whether you’re craving fresh walleye, a juicy burger, or seafood with a view, these restaurants offer more than just food they serve up memories alongside breathtaking scenery.
1. Lola’s Lakehouse
Imagine biting into fresh seafood while gazing across calm waters.
This restaurant sits at 50 W Lake St, Waconia, MN 55387, bringing coastal flavors to the Midwest.
The menu features flatbreads, salads, and sandwiches that pair perfectly with the lake breeze.
I love how the New England boathouse design makes you feel like you’ve traveled to the coast without leaving Minnesota.
The outdoor seating area lets you watch boats drift by as you enjoy your meal.
Sunset dinners here are particularly magical when the sky turns pink and orange over Lake Waconia.
Families and couples alike find this spot ideal for special occasions or casual weekend outings.
2. Lord Fletcher’s Old Lake Lodge
Few places can match the sheer size and grandeur of this lakeside institution.
Located at 3746 Sunset Dr, Spring Park, MN 55384, this venue sprawls along the shoreline with multiple dining spaces.
You can arrive by car or boat, which adds to the adventure.
The four-season porch means you can enjoy lake views year-round, even when Minnesota winters arrive.
I appreciate how the expansive deck accommodates large groups without feeling crowded.
Live music often fills the air on summer evenings, creating a festive atmosphere.
The menu offers something for everyone, from appetizers to hearty entrees that satisfy hungry lake-goers after a day on the water.
3. Maynard’s
Since 1998, this establishment has been serving up lakeside memories to locals and visitors.
You’ll find it at 701 Lake St E, Excelsior, MN 55331, where the patio can seat up to 500 guests.
The stone fireplace becomes a gathering spot when temperatures drop in the evening.
I recommend trying the Mr. Jimmy burger or the walleye fingers both are customer favorites that showcase local flavors.
The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between casual and special-occasion worthy.
Watching sailboats glide past while you dine creates a sense of relaxation that’s hard to find elsewhere.
The staff here understands Minnesota hospitality, making every visit feel welcoming and comfortable.
4. 6Smith
Fine dining meets waterfront beauty at this sophisticated spot.
The address is 294 Grove Ln E, Wayzata, MN 55391, where fresh seafood and prime steaks take center stage. Lobster rolls here taste like they came straight from New England shores.
I find the lakeside patio offers one of the most refined dining experiences on Lake Minnetonka.
The menu changes seasonally, ensuring you always taste the freshest ingredients available.
Service here is attentive without being intrusive, letting you focus on your meal and company.
Sunset reservations book quickly, so I suggest planning ahead if you want that golden-hour glow.
This spot works wonderfully for anniversaries, business dinners, or anytime you want to treat yourself.
5. The Wharf
Ahoy there! This pirate-themed restaurant brings fun and flavor to the lakeside dining scene.
Located at 14115 Daggett Pines Dr, Crosslake, MN 56442, it sits perfectly between Cross Lake and Rush Lake. The casual seafood menu makes ordering easy and enjoyable.
I can’t get enough of the sunset views here the sky puts on a show almost every evening.
The pirate theme adds a playful touch without being over the top or cheesy.
Kids love the atmosphere, making this an excellent choice for family dinners.
The location between two lakes means you get double the water views and twice the breeze on hot summer days.
6. New Scenic Cafe
Nordic heritage comes alive through every dish served here.
You’ll discover this gem at 5461 North Shore Dr, Duluth, MN 55804, where Lake Superior stretches to the horizon.
The smörgåsbord celebrates Minnesota’s Scandinavian roots in delicious ways.
I’m always impressed by how the grilled pheasant breast and crunchy fish showcase local ingredients with international flair.
Large windows frame Superior’s ever-changing moods, from calm mornings to dramatic storm-watching opportunities.
The cafe’s commitment to quality ingredients shines through in every bite.
This isn’t just a meal it’s a cultural experience that connects you to the region’s history and natural beauty all at once.
7. Ernie’s on Gull
Something special happens when your dining patio literally extends over the water.
Located at 10982 East Gull Lake Dr, East Gull Lake, MN 56401, this spot takes lakeside dining to new heights. Cheese curds, chicken wings, and walleye tacos dominate the pub-style menu.
I love how the patio makes you feel like you’re dining on a boat without ever leaving shore.
The walleye tacos offer a Minnesota twist on a classic dish that works surprisingly well.
Casual and friendly, this restaurant welcomes everyone from boaters to families out for a drive.
The over-water location means you might spot fish swimming below while you eat above.
8. Zorbaz on Detroit Lakes
Mexican food and pizza might sound like an unusual combination, but it works beautifully here.
Find this location at 402 W Lake Dr, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501, where the craft beer list runs impressively long. Live music adds energy to summer evenings when the patio fills with hungry diners.
I appreciate how the menu offers variety sometimes you want tacos, other times pizza sounds perfect.
The waterside setting means you can watch lake activities while enjoying your meal and cold beverage.
This chain has mastered the art of casual lakeside dining without sacrificing quality or flavor.
The atmosphere stays relaxed and fun, perfect for groups of friends or families seeking good times by the water.
9. Zorbaz on Grand Rapids
Another location of this beloved chain brings the same fun vibe to a different Minnesota lake.
You’ll find it at 40883 State Hwy 6, Grand Rapids, MN 55744, serving up that signature Mexican-pizza fusion.
The craft beer selection here rivals any dedicated beer bar in the state.
I like how each Zorbaz location maintains the brand’s fun personality while embracing its unique lakeside setting.
The Grand Rapids spot attracts both locals and tourists exploring northern Minnesota’s lake country.
Live music nights transform the patio into an outdoor party that celebrates summer properly.
The menu remains consistent with other locations, so you know what to expect delicious food with a view.
10. Blue Water Cafe
Casual dining reaches new heights when paired with crystal-clear lake waters.
Located at 24993 Blue Water Ln, Nisswa, MN 56468, this cafe embraces the laid-back lake life perfectly.
The menu focuses on fresh, simple preparations that let quality ingredients shine through.
I enjoy how this spot doesn’t try to be fancy it just delivers good food in a beautiful setting.
Boaters can dock right at the restaurant, making it a popular mid-cruise stop for lunch or dinner.
The cafe atmosphere encourages lingering over coffee or dessert while watching lake activity unfold.
Families feel comfortable here, and the staff treats everyone like old friends returning for another visit.
11. Quarterdeck Resort Restaurant
Resort dining brings extra comfort and convenience to your lakeside meal.
You’ll discover this at 19699 County Road 50, Fifty Lakes, MN 56448, where the deck overlooks a busy marina.
The restaurant serves resort guests and visitors alike with equal warmth and hospitality.
I love watching boats come and go while enjoying a leisurely lunch here.
The menu balances familiar favorites with a few creative dishes that surprise and delight your taste buds.
Being part of a resort means the service and quality remain consistently high throughout the season.
The deck seating offers front-row views of lake life, from fishing boats to water skiers showing off their skills nearby.
12. The Cove of Lake Minnetonka
Elegance and natural beauty combine seamlessly at this Lake Minnetonka treasure.
Find it at 4328 Shoreline Dr, Spring Park, MN 55384, where the covered patio protects you from unexpected weather.
The menu leans upscale while remaining approachable and satisfying for various tastes.
I appreciate how the covered design extends the dining season beyond just the warmest months.
The location on Lake Minnetonka means you’re dining on one of Minnesota’s most famous and beautiful bodies of water.
The Cove has built a reputation for hosting special events and romantic dinners.
Service here demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail that elevates the entire experience from good to memorable.
13. Waterfront Restaurant and Tavern
Tavern-style dining gets a major upgrade when you add lake views to the equation.
Located at 23718 Smiley Rd, Nisswa, MN 56468, this establishment balances casual tavern vibes with restaurant-quality food.
The outdoor seating fills quickly on nice days when everyone wants to be near the water.
I find the menu offers exactly what you crave after a day of lake activities satisfying portions and familiar flavors.
The tavern atmosphere keeps things relaxed and unpretentious, perfect for unwinding with friends or family.
Boat access makes this a convenient stop for those exploring Minnesota’s lake country by water.
The staff maintains that friendly Minnesota hospitality that makes you feel welcome from the moment you arrive.
